Working closely with Andy Fidgeon, head of lighting at Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Hawthorn has drawn from its extensive range of hire stock to supply lighting equipment to specification.
Wanting to upgrade this year's rig to feature more efficient and reliable fixtures whilst also still maintaining the look of the show, Hawthorn replaced the older Vari*Lite VL1000's units previously used with a mixture of Martin MAC Viper Performances & Wash DX fixtures. A selection of MAC 700 profiles also formed part of this season's rig.
"This year we wanted to upgrade and enhance the lighting of the production," says Fidgeon, who has been associated with the show for 20 years. "Using some of Hawthorn's latest fixtures, such as the MAC Viper Performance, we were able to improve our existing rig whilst maintaining the unique atmosphere of the show.
"Working with Hawthorn, you can always guarantee the kit will be good and there's always a great atmosphere on site when we visit their warehouse to prep the kit. You can tell it's a family run company with a friendly bunch of staff who really know their stuff."
Described by The Times as "sheer theatrical magic", The Snowman tells the story of a young boy's snowman that comes to life on a Christmas Eve. The two set off on a night-time adventure, meeting Father Christmas, dancing penguins, reindeer and crowds of the Snowman's friends along the way.
The Birmingham Repertory Theatre production features music and lyrics by Howard Blake, direction by Bill Alexander, design by Ruari Murchison and lighting design by Tim Mitchell. The Snowman live stage show is a much-loved festive tradition and following its 19th consecutive year at The Peacock in London will also tour to Birmingham Repertory Theatre and the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury in January 2017.
Mark Burnett, business development manager at Hawthorn, comments, "The Snowman is such a special production so we're thrilled to have been chosen to supply the lighting equipment. The past six months have been a whirlwind for us here at Hawthorn and we couldn't have wished for a more positive response. Working alongside a fantastic team of dedicated staff, we've managed to further grow and establish Hawthorn within the theatre market."
(Jim Evans)
